I was in between negotiating with the hotel for room rates and debating on whether all my guests needed transportation between the ceremony and the reception when I literally wanted to pull all my hair out. This wasn't my only meltdown. Family dynamics, the guest list, decision-making fatigue...almost every aspect of wedding planning is stressful.
I was taken right back to this place through my friend's experience this week. She just got engaged (congrats! you know who you are) and she has been navigating the messy and complicated pandora's box of wedding planning for the last couple of weeks -- figuring out how to get started and melding what she and her fiancé want with other people's expectations. Tears have ensued no short of three times.
Unfortunately, this is the norm. According to a recent study by Zola, an astounding 96% of engaged and newlywed couples reported they found wedding planning stressful.
What's more is that 86% of respondents suffered on average of 3+ stress-induced symptoms like skin breakouts, low sex drive, insomnia and headaches. When asked about what is the most stressful part of wedding planning, getting it all done came out as the top stressor following by managing the guest list and RSVPs and then finding a a venue.
This is terrible and super ironic, don't you agree? Wedding planning is supposed to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, one of the happiest of your life and for almost every single engaged couple that's not necessarily true.
Since we have to manage stress on top of all the other wedding planning duties, I sought out personal wellness coach, Kristin English, to share how to cope positively with your best frenemy, stress, while planning for your big day.
Listen to your body.
It will tell you when you need a break, need a snack, or need to take a step back to regain perspective.
Make a list complete with tasks and due dates.
This way you won't have to worry about things that don't have to happen for three months. You can focus on what needs to be addressed now and have faith you will get to everything when it needs to get done.
Ask for help.
I know this can be hard sometimes, but allowing people who care the opportunity to help you is also a gift. Delegate certain tasks to your fiancé, mom, sister, or bridal party. Or, hire help. Everything is a trade off and your sanity, peace of mind, and time are worth the financial cost of hiring a professional.
Remember that you are in control.
If the mere thought of planning a 200-person wedding makes you sweat, then taking that on yourself might not be the best idea. Brainstorm alternatives and take time to connect with what you and your fiancé really want out of your Big Day.
Maintain healthy habits.
Continue exercising, eating whole foods, and participating in the other stress-reduction activities that normally keep you sane. Maintaining a healthy balance will enable you to go the distance. This is important because, for many brides and grooms, wedding planning is a marathon, not a sprint.
“The extra effort required to orchestrate this elaborate event on top of the demands of everyday life can take a toll, but it doesn’t have to,” said English. “Implement these strategies and you’ll notice a remarkable difference in how you feel day to day.”
XO,
Kristen
P.S. - Before you go, don't forget to snag 20 creative ways to personalize your wedding right here!